Bichectomy is one of the aesthetic operations preferred by people who aim for an ideal facial appearance. This operation is performed to make facial features more proportional. In some cases, even if the person is at the ideal weight, he or she may appear overweight due to the amount of fat on the face. The fat tissue in the middle area of the cheeks is called buccal fat tissue. This fatty tissue, which is anatomically located in the lower region of the cheekbones, is located between the facial muscles and is thought to contribute to sucking functions in babies. However, with the aging process, buccal fat tissue generally tends to decrease. Buccal fat tissue is considered an important element of facial aesthetics. As a result of the growth of this tissue, facial lines may become rounded, cheeks may sag, and a baby face appearance may occur. Removing the fatty tissue on the cheeks, this procedure known as "partial buccal lipectomy", is considered an important surgical intervention in terms of facial features and aesthetics. Fat pads inside the cheeks can make a person look overweight or old.
Who is Bichectomy Suitable for?
Bichectomy can be performed on people of all ages and genders, but the lower age limit generally considered appropriate for the operation is 25. In individuals under this age, the effect of the operation may not be more obvious as the facial features have not yet been established. Bichectomy can be applied to people who have excess fat on the cheeks, have unclear facial features, appear chubby, overweight, or have thick facial lines. The operation is performed by targeting the golden ratio and the person's facial features become sharper, cheekbones and chin become prominent. Suitable candidates for this plastic surgery usually have the following characteristics:
- being physically healthy
- Having a healthy body weight
- Having a round and full face structure
- Being realistic about post-operative expectations
- not using tobacco
However, this operation may not be suitable for everyone. This operation may not be suitable for those who have naturally thin facial features or those who have already lost cheek fat tissue with aging. Additionally, it should not be forgotten that this operation may make the signs of aging more noticeable in elderly individuals.
How is Bichectomy Done?
Bichectomy surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia. However, if it is performed simultaneously with another plastic surgery intervention, general anesthesia may also be preferred. During the operation, an incision of approximately 1 cm in size is made on the inside of the cheek. Buccal fat tissue is reached and a certain part of this tissue is removed. The same process is repeated for the other cheek to obtain a symmetrical appearance. At the same time, some of the fat tissue taken to highlight the cheekbones can be added to this area to make facial lines sharper and more distinct. In order to complete the operation successfully, it is important that patients inform their doctors regularly before and after the examination. In addition, the use of antibiotics in the postoperative period, paying attention to oral hygiene, and complying with other care instructions recommended by the physician positively affect the healing process.
Things to Consider Before Bichectomy Operation
Before bichectomy surgery, it is important for patients to clearly express their post-operative expectations and goals to their doctors. They also need to share information such as chronic diseases, medications they use, alcohol and tobacco use. This information guides doctors about post-operative risks and what the recovery process may be like. During the examination, the physician examines the patient's face and tries to understand what appearance he wants to achieve. It is important that patients do not stop taking their regular medications and follow the doctor's recommendations before and after the operation.
Things to Consider After Bichectomy Operation
After bichectomy surgery, patients are usually discharged immediately and can return to daily activities. Using antibiotics, paying attention to oral hygiene and following other care instructions after the operation can accelerate the healing process. Additionally, cold compresses can be applied to reduce swelling and bruising. Other factors to consider after the operation include not smoking, limiting alcohol consumption and not skipping regular check-ups. Complete implementation of all instructions given by the physician is important for a successful recovery process. Bichectomy operation offers an effective solution for those who want to clarify facial lines and achieve a more aesthetic appearance. However, like every aesthetic operation, bichectomy can give the best results when performed correctly and on suitable candidates in expert hands. It is important for those who want to achieve an ideal facial appearance to have a detailed discussion with a specialist plastic surgeon before the bichectomy operation and evaluate whether the operation is suitable for them.
